Equi-Sential Rubber Bit Guards for Horses & Ponies
Description
Equi-Sential Rubber Bit Guard - Simple Lip Protection Where It Matters
The Equi-Sential Rubber Bit Guard is a flexible rubber disc that fits over the bit ring and sits between the bit and the corner of your horse's mouth. It is designed for riders whose horses get rubbed or pinched by the bit rings, and it is especially useful with loose ring snaffles where the ring moves through the mouthpiece.
Best for horses and ponies in daily work, sensitive-mouthed types, and youngsters settling into a bit. It is an inexpensive, low-fuss addition to a bridle you already own, rather than a replacement for correctly fitting tack.
Key Features
- Flexible rubber: smooth and forgiving against the skin at the corners of the lips.
- Reduces pinching: creates a barrier where a loose ring passes through the mouthpiece hole.
- Wide compatibility: fits most standard snaffle bit rings, including loose rings and eggbutts.
- Quick to fit: stretches over the ring and settles flush against the bit.
- Everyday use: suitable for schooling, hacking, in-hand work and lunging in a bridle.
- Easy to clean: rinse in clean water after use and allow to air dry.
Specifications
| Brand | Equi-Sential |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Rubber bit guard |
| Material | Rubber |
| Suitable For | Horses, ponies, cobs, warmbloods |
| Bit Compatibility | Most standard snaffle rings, including loose ring |
| Use | Schooling, hacking, lunging, in-hand |
| Care | Rinse after use, air dry away from direct heat |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
How to Use
- Remove the bit from the bridle, or unbuckle one cheekpiece, so the ring is free.
- Stretch the rubber guard over the bit ring, easing it around the full circumference.
- Slide the guard along until it sits flush against the side of the mouthpiece.
- Repeat on the opposite ring so both sides are protected evenly.
- Check the guard lies flat and is not twisted or stretched out of shape before bridling up.
- Rinse after riding and inspect the rubber for splits or hardening before each use.
Browse more bitting essentials in our bits and bitting collection.
FAQ
What does a bit guard actually do?
It sits between the bit ring and the corner of the horse's mouth, forming a smooth barrier that helps reduce rubbing and stops the lip being caught or pinched by the ring.
Will it fit my bit?
It fits most standard snaffle rings, including loose ring and eggbutt designs. Very thick or oversized rings, such as some large loose rings, may be a tight stretch, so check your ring diameter and thickness if in doubt.
Do bit guards fix a bit that is the wrong size?
No. A bit that is too narrow will still pinch and one that is too wide will still slide. Measure your horse's mouth and fit the correct bit width first, then add guards for extra comfort.
Are bit guards allowed in competition?
Rules vary by discipline and governing body, and some disallow them in certain classes. Always check the current rulebook for your discipline before competing.
How do I clean them?
Rinse in clean water after use to remove saliva and grass, then air dry away from direct heat. Replace the guards if the rubber splits, hardens or perishes.
Can I use them on a pony?
Yes. The same guard suits ponies, cobs and larger horses, as fit is determined by the bit ring rather than the size of the horse.
About Equi-Sential
Equi-Sential produces practical, hard-wearing basics for riders and yards - the everyday items that get used daily and need to simply work. The range covers straightforward tack and stable essentials for horses and ponies at all levels.